Red Ribbon Week began back in the 80s with the “Just Say ‘No’ to Drugs” campaign. PTA sponsors the themes and week. Students learn the dangerous effects of drugs and wear silly outfits to silly themes like “Tie One On for Drugs” where everyone wore a necktie.

I had just finished the dangers of marijuana PowerPoint when I turned to face my class. This was the point I always dreaded.

“Does anyone have any questions?”

A tall girl in the second row shyly raised her hand, then quickly jerked it down, before raising it again with more confidence.

I motioned to her to ask away.

“I’ve heard of the word before but what is marijuana?”

There is such innocence in that question and I rejoice that I have a thirteen-year old who doesn’t know what marijuana is.